We're talkin' curb appeal, baby. The ability for your home to say, "Welcome, leave your worries at the door, friendly folks live here" just by a glance at the front porch. Now, that's what I'm talkin' about, people. Just look at the top picture of that charming front porch, what with it's quaint screen door, American flag and the fabulous cone basket of flowers. Aah, I just know someone sweet lives here.
How about this stone cottage with the amazing stone fence, huh? My cottage has some stone work on the front of it, but it's not nearly so grand. It goes about two and a half feet up from the ground.(picture your knee cap height.) Someday, when my ship comes in, I'm going to add to it, and create a bit more ambiance, maybe even add a charming low stone fence like the one pictured here, with a sweet little gate to welcome one and all to the jewel of Norman Drive. *sigh* I think I just might start a coin jar for this very purpose.
Another great close up shot from Romantic Homes a few years back, showcasing the charm of shutters, along with a fairy door. (Anyway that's what I think it is, don't you?) It makes me want to add a fairy door to my cottage in some charming spot.
Lastly, how about this charming cottage look? So perfect. (Very Susan Branch, no?) The rose bushes, (which I now adore with all my heart since moving to my dear cottage) the white picket fence, the shutters, the pergola, the window boxes. Oh, just the warm, fuzzy feel of it all.
*sigh* Total inspiration for a summer weekend.
Beautiful inspiration! We're going to be working on our 'curb appeal' this weekend pulling out some old landscaping and hopefully adding some cottage ambience.
Posted by: Lallee | June 29, 2007 at 05:04 AM
Oh wish my neighbor's house looked like one of these. Right now they have a dumpster in the front and backyard and hauled in more trash for a garage sale. I'm so depressed!! Our town is lovely how'd I get stuck with this neighbor? Do you think if I slid your pictures under their door they'd take a hint?
Best,
Kathy
Posted by: Kathleen | June 29, 2007 at 05:45 AM
Oh, those are just lovely--so inspirational! I especially love that first one.
Posted by: Kim | June 29, 2007 at 06:41 AM
aaaaaahhhh! so inviting!!!
I enjoyed the Willow Nest via your posts...
Yummy!
Posted by: Dawn | June 29, 2007 at 06:49 AM
"one day when my sip comes in" that is so funny. I need a t-shirt with a wine glass on it and that saying. my fri starts with a smile. have a great weekend. (that was on purpose right)
Posted by: Becky H | June 29, 2007 at 08:49 AM
Oh! Thanks for catching that!!! LOL! Yes, it would make a great wine tasting shirt or apron!!!!!!
Posted by: Tracey | June 29, 2007 at 09:13 AM
I love the last house. I can just picture myself working in that yard!
Those are all beautiful!
Posted by: cindy | June 29, 2007 at 09:27 AM
Beautiful pictures. All are my favorites.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Rosemary
Posted by: Rosemary | June 29, 2007 at 03:50 PM
Man, these amazing houses are so inspirational! Makes want to go outside and do some serious weeding in my front garden! :-)
Posted by: m i c h e l l e | June 29, 2007 at 05:35 PM
How have I not found you before now?? Your blog is GORGEOUS!! You have impeccable taste, and I'm heading over to my blog to put you on my "inspiring blogs" list!!
I can't wait to explore your blog further...
Linda
Posted by: Linda | June 29, 2007 at 07:13 PM
Great inspiration!!!
Posted by: Gypsy Purple-Chamara | June 30, 2007 at 03:46 AM
That bouquet on the first door is so charming. I LOVE decorating my door. & SHARING it with my neighbors. Thanks for the inspiration.... Im off to do something new this week thanks to you!
Best Wish ~ & Im so glad I found your blog!!!
XO
Posted by: Joelle DeNardo | July 02, 2007 at 10:56 PM
So enjoy your comments and your taste is mine. HUH!! YOU ARE INSPIRING! MY screensaver is the 3rd with a blue house. So European! Tracey I would love to see you published but we would so miss your blog.
Posted by: DIANE | December 12, 2008 at 03:37 PM